Extraparotid Warthin's tumor: clinical manifestations, challenges, and controversies

Extraparotid Warthin's tumors continue to challenge the head and neck surgeon's diagnostic and therapeutic skills. A series of six extraporotid Warthin's tumors are presented to illustrate the need to keep a high index of suspicion for this lesion in the workup of cystic masses involving cervical levels II and III or in the event of a concomitant neck mass and a parotid Warthin's tumor. Discussion of the debate surrounding the embryogenesis and histogenesis of extraparotid Warthin's tumors follows. Clinical guidelines are suggested for the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients with extraparotid Warthin's tumors.